Solano Community College Athletics invites the community to tee-off with the Falcons Oct. 5 for their annual signature fundraiser at Hiddenbrooke Golf Course.

Student-athletes, coaches and athletics staff members will once again be a driving force for the 5th Annual Tee Off for Athletes Golf Invitational as they team up assist the four-person scramble. Doors will open for registration at 9 a.m., with the tournament scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. following an introduction by Solano Community College President Dr. Celia Esposito-Noy.

For Solano Community College Athletic Director Erik Visser, this event allows the community to get to know the person behind the athlete or coach, while also providing a fun and lively experience for the tournament’s 130-150 participants expected to be in attendance.

“This is an opportunity to showcase what we have in terms of coaches and athletes,” Visser said. “It’s an important community event for us and we always look forward to it. The athletes and coaches really help during the day itself to make it’s a success.”

Registration has already been opened online but visitors will be able to sign up prior to the event’s shotgun start. Individual tickets are available for $195 or $780 for the foursome. There are also a collection of sponsorship opportunities that range from the “hole sponsor” for $750, to the Gold Falcon package for $5,000.

Although Visser spearheaded the fundraising efforts leading up to the event once again, the event wouldn’t be possible without the support of the student-athletes and coaches.

“It’s been a very successful event and is a collaborative effort between the athletics staff, coaches and student-athletes,” Visser said. “All of the money benefits the individual teams and allows them to supplement their existing budget for coaches that want to do additional things; whether that’s for travel expenses with a trip to Southern California or specific gear the coaches would like to have for their teams.”

Along with a mix of games and additional snacks at specific holes along the course, the tournament will include a raffle, lunch, dinner, and NorthBay Healthcare putting contest before tee time. Lunch will include an array of deli sandwiches and finger foods.

The tournament is expected to come to a close around 4:30 p.m., with a tri-tip and chicken dinner to be served shortly after. The eventful evening will be bookended by the awards banquet, and will provide an additional opportunity for coaches and players to mingle with the guests.

“We are extremely student services oriented and proud to serve the community and our student-athletes,” Visser said. “Many people don’t understand the commitment. And not only do they carry full-time loads with school, but many of them have jobs outside of school. Once the community gets a chance to connect with these athletes from Solano, they’re impressed with their overall demeanor and commitment.”

For more information about the tournament and to sign up online, visit https://foundation.solano.edu/event/2018-tee-off-athletes-golf-invitational/.